Mississippi offers nurses an abundance of healthcare positions and year-round sun in a low cost-of-living region. There's an average of one hospital bed for every 200 residents and newly-hired nurses can sometimes expect to be offered signing bonuses. The state's 28,200 RNs and 10,570 LVNs earn an average $57,940 and $34,930, respectively, compared to a national average of $67,720 and $41,360, reports the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. While the state has an overall unemployment rate of 10.6 percent, nurse vacancies exist throughout the state and the demand for RNs and LVNs is rising at healthcare facilities.
There are less than a dozen nursing schools that offer LPN to RN (ADN and BSN) programs in Mississippi. They include:
Alcorn State University nursing school at Natchez offers associate degree tracks to RN licensure and an LPN fast-track option. LPNs can qualify for the Associate of Science in nursing Degree in two semesters and take the national exam to become an entry-level RN. The school also offers an advanced baccalaureate degree and graduate level nursing programs.
East Central Community College in Decatur offers an LPN to ADN Bridge Program for licensed practical nurses who have one year of patient care experience. Courses touch upon both general and clinical knowledge. Application packets for the bridge program are available after August 1 annually. Graduates of the two-semester program receive an associate degree of science in nursing and can take the exam for RN licensure. The college also offers a four-semester ADN program.
Hinds Community College in Jackson offers a transitional LPN to RN career track for wich LPNs are given priority admission to an associate degree in nursing program when space is available. Applicants must meet core performance standards and score well on a rating scale that incorporates ACT math and reading test results and previous certificates or degrees. LPNs meeting prerequisites can complete the ADN program in one year and be eligible for RN licensure.
